What is methyl mercaptan gas?

A cloud of methyl mercaptan gas released from a French factory has residents
of south-east England breathing through handkerchiefs and closing their
windows – but they have nothing to worry about other than the appalling
smell.

The Lubrizol company in Rouen, where a chemical substance became unstable causing gas odors that are similar to those of town gasPhoto: AFP

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At high concentrations, for example those one might encounter in a laboratory, the gas can cause irritation to the eyes and throat, drowsiness and even conditions like bronchitis.

But in the atmosphere, the strongest sideeffect of breathing in methyl mercaptan is likely to be mild nausea at the stomach-turning odour.

French ministers have insisted the gas escaped at a very low concentration, meaning there is "no danger" to anyone exposed to the unfortunate spill.

But because the gas is designed to be detectable at even minute concentrations, residents of Kent and Sussex may be experiencing the unpleasant consequences of the French gas release for some time yet.